JP7297781B2 - Headgear with unlocking mechanism - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to respiratory therapy systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to interface assemblies and portions thereof used in respiratory therapy.

Masks that provide a substantially airtight seal with the wearer are used in a variety of fields (eg, gas masks, diving masks, respiratory therapy masks). Some of these masks use headgear that includes one or more straps to secure the mask to the wearer's face.

Respiratory masks are used to provide respiratory therapy to the airways of people suffering from any of a number of respiratory diseases or conditions. Such therapies may include, but are not limited to, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and non-invasive ventilation (NIV) therapy.

CPAP therapy can be used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition in which a patient's airway is intermittently blocked during sleep, leaving the patient unable to breathe for a period of time. The cessation of breathing, or apnea, causes the patient to wake up. Repetitive and frequent apneas can cause patients to seldom get a full and restorative night's sleep.

CPAP therapy involves delivering a supply of continuous positive air pressure to a patient's airways through a respiratory mask. The continuous positive pressure acts as a splint within the patient's airway, securing the airway in an open position so that the patient's breathing and sleep are unhindered.

A respiratory mask typically includes a patient interface and headgear that persists in the patient's airway via a seal or cushion that forms an airtight seal in or around the patient's nose and/or mouth. Configured to deliver a supply of positive air pressure. Respirators are available in a variety of styles, including full face, nasal, direct nose and mouth masks, and form an airtight seal with the nose and/or mouth. The seal or cushion is held in place on the patient's face by headgear. To maintain an airtight seal, the headgear must provide support to the patient interface so that it is held in a stable position against the patient's face during use. Such respiratory masks can also be used to deliver NIV and other therapies.

The systems, methods and apparatus described herein have innovative aspects, none of which are essential or solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of the claims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.

In some configurations, the respiratory mask headgear includes at least one strap comprising a filament, a directional lock having an engagement configuration and a release configuration with respect to the filament, and a release operable to hold the lock in the unlocked configuration. and a member.

In some configurations, the headgear further comprises an actuator configured to act on the release member to cause the release member to retain the lock in the unlocked configuration.

In some configurations, the actuator is selectively operable to act on the release member. In some such configurations, the actuator is coupled to one of the movable bar or button or handle.

In some configurations, the actuator is configured to automatically act on the release member when the user pulls the mask away from the user's face. In some such configurations, the actuator comprises an arm coupled to at least one strap and configured to be movable relative to the respiratory mask.

In some configurations, the release member is normally biased so as not to retain the lock in its released configuration.

In some configurations, the at least one strap comprises a first strap portion and a second strap portion, the filament attached to one of the first strap portion and the second strap portion, and the first strap portion and the second strap portion. The second strap portions are movable relative to each other to change the length of the at least one strap.

In some configurations, at least one strap extends between the head-engaging portion and the mask-engaging portion of the headgear.

In some configurations, the respirator headgear includes at least one strap comprising a filament and a direction configured to restrict movement of the filament in a direction until a minimum force is applied to the filament in that direction. and a release member operable to reduce the minimum force required to move the filament in said direction.

In some configurations, the release member is normally biased away from the minimum force reduced position.

In some configurations, the directional lock minimum force is between about 2 Newtons and 8 Newtons. In some configurations, two or more directional locks with a minimum force of 2-8 Newtons can be combined to provide an overall minimum force of 4-16 Newtons or 16-32 Newtons. .

In some configurations, the directional lock minimum force is about 4 Newtons to 6 Newtons. In some configurations, two or more directional locks with a minimum force of 4-6 Newtons can be combined to provide an overall minimum force of 8-12 Newtons or 16-32 Newtons. .

In some configurations, the headgear further comprises at least one strap that is free of filaments.

In some configurations, the headgear further comprises an actuator configured to operate the release member.

In some configurations, the actuator is selectively operable to act on the release member. In some such configurations, the actuator is coupled to one of the moveable bar, button or handle.

In some configurations, the actuator is configured to automatically act on the release member when the user pulls the mask away from the user's face. In some such configurations, the actuator comprises an arm coupled to at least one strap and configured to be movable relative to the respiratory mask.

In some configurations, the mask assembly includes any of the headgear described above. The mask assembly further comprises a mask. The mask has a frame and a cushion module with a housing and a seal. The mask further comprises a connection arrangement configured to connect the cushion module to the frame. The connecting arrangement comprises at least one protrusion located on one of the cushion module and the frame and at least one recess located on the other of the cushion module and the frame. The at least one projection is configured to engage the at least one recess to secure the cushion module to the frame.

In some configurations, the cushion module includes a cylindrical wall defining an opening that receives the collar of the frame.

In some configurations, at least one protrusion extends circumferentially in the cylindrical wall and at least one recess extends circumferentially in the collar.

In some configurations, the cylindrical wall extends from the outer wall of the housing into the breathing chamber of the cushion module.

In some configurations, the alignment feature includes a recess defined by one of the cushion module and the frame and a protrusion defined by the other of the cushion module and the frame. The protrusion is configured to engage the recess to facilitate rotational alignment of the cushion module with respect to the frame.

In some configurations, the headgear comprises a yoke configured to connect the headgear to the mask.

In some configurations, the yoke comprises a central portion and at least one arm extending from the central portion. At least one arm is configured to connect to at least one strap of the headgear.

In some configurations, the frame includes a lip and the yoke includes at least one hooked connecting finger configured to selectively engage the lip to secure the yoke to the frame.

In some configurations, the lip extends along the perimeter of the frame.

In some configurations the lip extends from the front face of the frame.

In some configurations, the at least one hook-like connecting finger is located adjacent the junction of the at least one arm and the central portion.

In some configurations, the recess is located adjacent the at least one hooked connecting finger and is configured to facilitate deflection of the at least one hooked connecting finger.

In some configurations, a gap is located adjacent the at least one hook-like connection finger to facilitate deflection of the at least one hook-like connection finger and/or the at least one arm and the at least one hook-like connection. It is configured to decouple movement of the fingers.

In some configurations, the gap extends completely through the rear wall of the yoke.

In some configurations, the at least one strap includes multiple straps and the at least one arm includes multiple arms.

In some configurations, the number of straps is different than the number of arms.

In some configurations, the mask assembly includes a cushion module, the cushion module having a housing, a seal for sealing with the patient's face, an inlet opening to the cushion module, and located in the housing above the inlet opening. and a plurality of exhaust holes. The mask assembly also includes a frame with at least one protrusion that engages the inlet opening of the cushion module to attach the frame to the cushion module. The frame has a conduit connector portion that connects to a conduit through which breathing gas is delivered. The conduit connector portion extends below the inlet opening when the frame is attached to the cushion module. A yoke is configured to be attached to the frame. The yoke includes a central portion substantially aligned with the inlet opening of the cushion module when the yoke is attached to the frame, and arms extending laterally from the central portion.

In some configurations, the entire central portion of the yoke lies below the plurality of vents when the yoke and cushion module are attached to the frame.

In some configurations, the entire yoke lies below the highest height of the plurality of vents when the yoke and cushion module are attached to the frame.

In some configurations, the maximum width of the frame is less than or equal to the maximum width of the central portion of the yoke.

In some configurations, the frame includes a lip and the yoke includes at least one hooked connecting finger configured to selectively engage the lip to secure the yoke to the frame.

In some configurations, the lip extends along the perimeter of the frame.

In some configurations the lip extends from the front face of the frame.

In some configurations, the at least one hooked connecting finger comprises a hooked connecting finger located adjacent the juncture of each of the arms and the central portion.

In some configurations, the recess is located adjacent the at least one hooked connecting finger and is configured to facilitate deflection of the at least one hooked connecting finger.

In some configurations, a gap is located adjacent each of the hooked connecting fingers to facilitate deflection of the associated hooked connecting finger and/or movement of each of the arms with the associated hooked connecting finger. configured to separate the

In some configurations, the gap extends completely through the rear wall of the yoke.

Throughout the drawings, reference numbers may be reused to indicate general correspondence between referenced elements. The drawings are provided to illustrate example embodiments described herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

1 is a perspective view of a mask assembly including a headgear assembly, a seal assembly and a frame assembly; FIG. 2 is a front view of the mask assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a side view of the mask assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the mask assembly of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the seal assembly, frame assembly and front portion of the headgear assembly; 1 is an exploded view of one form of headgear assembly; FIG. FIG. 11 is a front view of an example embodiment of an assembled frame, cushion and yoke; Figure 8 is a partial perspective view of the yoke of Figure 7 separated from the frame; Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled frame and yoke taken along line 9-9 of Figure 7; 8 is a rear view of the rear yoke portion of the yoke of FIG. 7; FIG. 10B is a front view of the yoke rear portion of FIG. 10A; FIG. 8 is a rear view of the yoke front portion of the yoke of FIG. 7; FIG. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled frame and yoke of Figure 7 taken along line 11-11 of Figure 7; 12 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled frame and yoke of FIG. 7 taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 7; FIG. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the cushion of Figure 7; FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the yoke showing the components of the headgear adjustment mechanism; Fig. 3 shows how the end caps are bonded over the ends of the yoke; 16 is a partial rear perspective view of the assembled end cap and yoke of FIG. 15; FIG. Figure 8 is an end view of the yoke end of the yoke of Figure 7; Figure 18 is a top view of the yoke end of Figure 17; 19 is a cross-sectional view of the end cap coupled to the yoke end along line 19-19 of FIG. 17; FIG. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the end cap of FIG. 19; Figure 20 is a rear view of the yoke of Figures 7 and 15-19; FIG. 11 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the yoke rear; 23 is a rear view of an alternative embodiment of a yoke front configured to be coupled to the yoke rear of FIG. 22; FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the rear yoke of FIG. 22 and the front yoke of FIG. 23 assembled together along line 24-24 of FIG. 21; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the directional lock in the locked position; Figure 25B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the directional lock of Figure 25A in a locked position; Figure 25B is a cross-sectional view of the directional lock of Figure 25A in an unlocked position; Figure 25B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the directional lock of Figure 25A in an unlocked position; 1 is a perspective view of a mask assembly including a headgear assembly, a seal assembly and a frame assembly; FIG. Figure 27 is a perspective view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of Figure 26 separated from each other; Fig. 10 is an exploded view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke; Figure 27 is a perspective view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a front view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a side view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of Figure 26; 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 26; FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 26; FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 26; FIG. Figure 27 is a front view of the frame of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a side view of the frame of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a rear view of the frame of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the frame of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a front view of the yoke of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a rear view of the yoke of Figure 26; Figure 27 is a side view of the yoke of Figure 26; 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the yoke of FIG. 26; FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the yoke of FIG. 26; FIG. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the releasable lock in an open or unlocked position; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the releasable lock in the closed or locked position; Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a releasable lock; FIG. 4 is a side view of the releasable lock in an open or unlocked position; Fig. 10 is a side view of the releasable lock in the closed or locked position; Fig. 10 is a rear view of the releasable lock; 45 is a side view of a washer housing containing the washer of the releasable lock of FIG. 44; FIG. 45 is a rear view of the washer housing and washer of the releasable lock of FIG. 44; FIG. FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a washer; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a washer; Fig. 3 is a side view of a non-releasable lock; Fig. 3 is a front view of a non-releasable lock; Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a washer of a non-releasable lock; 1 is a perspective view of a mask assembly including a headgear assembly, a seal assembly and a frame assembly tightened on a wearer's head with a releasable coupling including a release handle; FIG. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a mask assembly including a yoke portion of a headgear assembly, a seal assembly and a frame assembly with a releasable coupling including a release handle; 54 is an exploded view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 53; FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 53; FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 53; FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 53; FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 53; FIG. 54 is a perspective view of the assembled cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 53; FIG. FIG. 10 is a front view of the yoke with release handle; FIG. 10 is a side view of a yoke configured to utilize a release handle; FIG. 10 is a rear view of a yoke configured to utilize a release handle; FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a mask assembly including a headgear assembly, a seal assembly and a frame assembly with a releasable coupling including a tilt release mechanism; 62 is a perspective view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 61; FIG. 62 is an exploded view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 61; FIG. 62 is a front view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 61; FIG. 62 is a side view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 61; FIG. 62 is a side view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 61 with the tilting mechanism in the engaged (released) position; FIG. 62 is a side view of the cushion module, mask frame and yoke of FIG. 61 with the tilting mechanism in the released (closed) position; FIG. Figure 62 is a perspective view of a tilting mechanism for the yoke as shown in Figure 61; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of various components of the tilting mechanism in the engaged (released) position; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of various components of the tilting mechanism, with the tilting mechanism in the unlocked (closed) position; FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a release arm of the tilt action release mechanism; FIG. 11 is a side view of a release arm of the tilt action release mechanism; FIG. 11 is a top view of the release arm of the tilt action release mechanism; FIG. 11 is a rear view of the release arm of the tilt action release mechanism; FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a mask assembly including a yoke portion of a headgear assembly, a cushion module and a frame; 76 is a front left perspective view of the mask assembly of FIG. 75 in an exploded state; FIG. FIG. 76 is a right rear perspective view of the mask assembly of FIG. 75 in a disassembled state; FIG. 4B is a rear view of the yoke showing part of a first connection arrangement connecting the yoke to the frame; Figure 76 is a cross-sectional view of the mask assembly of Figure 75 showing the first connection configuration; Figure 80 is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional view of Figure 79 showing the first connection configuration; 76 is another cross-sectional view of the mask assembly of FIG. 75 showing the first connection configuration; FIG. 76 is a cross-sectional view of the mask assembly of FIG. 75 showing the first connection configuration; FIG. 76 is a cross-sectional view of the mask assembly of FIG. 75 showing a second connection mechanism connecting the cushion module to the frame; FIG. 82B is an enlarged view of a portion of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 82A showing the first connection configuration and direction of movement to connect the yoke to the frame; FIG. 76 is a cross-sectional view of the mask assembly of FIG. 75 showing alignment features that align the cushion module with the frame; FIG.

Embodiments of systems, components, and methods of assembly and manufacture will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures. Like numbers refer to like or similar elements throughout the figures. Although several embodiments, examples and exemplifications are disclosed below, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention described herein goes beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments, examples and exemplifications and extends beyond the scope of the present invention. It is understood that other uses and obvious modifications and equivalents of the invention can be included. The terminology used in the description presented herein is not intended to be interpreted in any restrictive or restrictive form solely for the reason that it is used in conjunction with the detailed description of several specific embodiments of the invention. not intended to be Moreover, embodiments of the present invention may include several novel features, no single feature being solely responsible for its desirable attributes, and implementing the invention as described herein. nor is it essential for

In the following description, some terminology may be used for reference purposes only and is therefore not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as "upper" and "lower" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as "horizontal", "vertical", "anterior", "posterior", "left", "right", "posterior" and "lateral" refer to the upright orientation of the user's head with respect to the patient interface. configuration in a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, as will become apparent by reference to text and associated drawings describing the component or elements under consideration, often in their mounted orientation It describes the orientation and/or location of an element or parts of an element. Additionally, terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc. may be used to describe separate components. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

Unless otherwise clearly required from the context, throughout the specification and claims, words such as "comprise, comprising," and the like are used in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense. , that is, to be interpreted in the sense of "including but not limited to." In particular, conditional language used herein such as "can, could," "might, may," "for example," etc. Generally, some embodiments will include some features, elements and/or states, while other embodiments will generally include other is intended to imply that it does not include Thus, such conditional language generally states that the features, elements and/or states are required in some way in one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments require author input or With or without indication, the logic for determining whether these features, elements and/or states should be included in or implemented in any particular embodiment may be applied. It is not intended to imply necessarily inclusion.

The term "plurality" refers to two or more elements. Recitations of amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics may be preceded by the term "about" or "approximately" such quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes or other characteristics. should be interpreted as if The terms "about" or "approximately" refer to amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes, and other characteristics that are not required to be exact, but are subject to acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, if necessary. It is meant to be an approximation and/or may be larger or smaller to reflect measurement error, etc., and other factors known to those skilled in the art. Recitations of amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics may also be preceded by the term "substantially" such amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes or other characteristics. should also be interpreted as The term "substantially" does not require that the recited characteristic, parameter or value be exactly achieved, and includes, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement accuracy limits, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. Means that deviations or variations may occur in amounts that do not eliminate the effect that the feature is intended to provide.

Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. These range formats are used merely for convenience and brevity and are therefore flexibly construed to include the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, as well as the values encompassed within that range. It will be understood that each numerical value or subrange recited should also be construed to include every single numerical value or subrange as if each numerical value and subrange were explicitly recited. By way of illustration, a numerical range of "1 to 5" should not be construed to include only the explicitly recited values from about 1 to about 5, but rather to include each individual value within the indicated range. and should also be construed to include subranges. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3 and 4, as well as subranges such as "1 to 3," "2 to 4," and "3 to 5." This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (eg, "greater than 1") and should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristic being described.

For convenience, multiple items may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be interpreted as if each element of the list were individually identified as a separate and unique element. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, any individual element of such a list shall be construed to be a de facto equivalent of every other element of the same list solely on the basis that it is presented in a common group. should not be interpreted. Further, the terms "and" and "or" when used with lists of items refer to any one or more of the listed items alone or in combination with other listed items. should be interpreted broadly in that it can The term "alternatively" refers to the choice of one of two or more options, only the options listed at a time, or one of the options listed, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is not intended to limit the selection to only one.

Reference herein to any prior art is not an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor in any country in the world; should not be construed as something like

Where the above description refers to integrals or components that have known equivalents, those integrals are incorporated herein as if individually indicated.

The invention broadly extends to the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the present application, individually or collectively, any or all of two or more of said parts, elements or features. It is also possible to say that it exists in a combination of

It should be noted that various variations and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such variations and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. For example, various components can be repositioned as desired. It is therefore intended that such variations and modifications be included within the scope of the present invention. Moreover, not all features, aspects and advantages may be required to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.

The present disclosure provides a respiratory interface assembly, or respiratory mask assembly, with the interface assembly in an adjusted (e.g., self-adjusted) position, which may be a position sized to fit a particular user of the interface assembly. One or more retaining or locking features configured to retain and release the retaining or locking features to allow little or no opposing forces or opposing forces from the adjusted position of the interface assembly. and a release (e.g., manual release) configuration configured to allow movement of the holding or locking configuration (e.g., significantly less) than the holding or locking force of the holding or locking configuration. Regarding assembly.

1-6 illustrate an example respiratory interface system or respiratory mask system 100 for delivering respiratory therapy to a patient. Mask system 100 may include an interface such as mask 102 . In the illustrated configuration, mask 102 comprises a seal or seal module and frame, as described in further detail herein. The illustrated mask system 100 also includes a headgear assembly 200 (sometimes simply referred to herein as "headgear"). Mask 102 and headgear 200 may include a connection system that attaches headgear 200 to mask 102 . Various forms of connection systems can be used to attach the headgear 200 to the mask 102 . Similarly, mask 102 can be coupled to at least one, and possibly multiple, different types of headgear.

Mask 102 may comprise seal 104 and frame 106 . The seal 104 can be configured to seal around and/or under the patient's mouth and/or nose. In the illustrated configuration, seal 104 is a nasal seal configured to deliver a flow of breathing gas only to the user's nose. In particular, the illustrated seal 104 includes a pair of nasal pillows configured to form a seal with the user's nostrils and the nasal pillows surrounding the user's nose, under the user's nose, on the sides of the user's nose, and on the sides of the user's nose. A secondary sealing portion configured to form a secondary seal with one or more of the user's upper lip. However, features of the present disclosure can be implemented with other mask systems having other types of mask seals, such as, for example and without limitation, full face seals. Frame 106 is configured to support seal 104 and attach seal 104 to headgear 200 . The frame 106 can also include a gas inlet 108 (FIG. 5) configured to be attached to a gas conduit 110 that delivers a flow of respiratory gas to the patient through the mask 102 . The seal 104 can include a mounting frame or clip 122, which in some configurations can include a first portion 122a and a second portion 122b, the first portion 122a and the second portion 122b. Portions 122b capture the rim of seal 104 between them. Clip 122 is configured to selectively connect to frame 106, such as by a snap fit, friction fit, or other suitable configuration. Frame 106 may include a vent 140 configured to exhaust gas from the interior of seal 104 . Mask 102 may include a vent insert or diffuser 152 covering vent 140 to control exhaust flow.

Headgear 200 of respiratory mask system 100 is used to hold mask 102 to the patient's face. Headgear 200 is typically attached to mask 102 and wraps around the back of the patient's head to hold mask 102 in sealing contact with the patient's face.

In one form, the headgear assembly 200 can include a yoke or collector 202 configured to attach to the mask 102, as described in greater detail herein.

The yokes 202 can be configured to attach to the straps of the headgear 200, and the straps and the yokes 202 together form a closed loop that encircles the user's head. In the illustrated embodiment, the headgear 200 includes rear straps 204 configured to wrap around the back of the patient's head, top straps 206 configured to wrap over the top of the patient's head, and a pair of front straps 208 (FIG. 6) configured to extend along the user's cheeks in use. In one form, each front strap 208 is attached by a rear connector 205 to a rear strap 204 of the headgear assembly 200, eg, to a free end 207 of the rear strap 204 or to a connector coupled to the free end 207. In another form, the rear straps 204 include side extensions that form front straps that extend along the patient's cheeks in use.

In one form, the headgear 200 can be adjustable (e.g., manually adjustable, automatically adjustable) and/or allow the headgear 200 to decrease in length with a relatively low amount of resistance. One or more locks (eg, directional lock 1800) may be incorporated to resist increases in length of headgear 200 as well. In some configurations, the locking force of directional lock 1800 can be overridden so that headgear 200 can be lengthened to accommodate interface assembly 100 . In some forms, the yoke 202 can form a collection for filaments used in self-adjusting headgear systems. In this form, the yoke 202 can incorporate one or more directional locks 1800, each of which includes one or more locking elements, which can be referred to herein as lock washers or washers. be able to. The lock washers are configured to frictionally engage the filaments during extension of the headgear 200 but allow relatively frictionless movement during retraction of the headgear 200 . In some configurations, headgear 200 or interface assembly 100 releases or opens directional lock 1800 to allow low-friction movement while controls or other actuators are operated by the user. It includes a release mechanism or configuration configured to retain and provide high frictional resistance when the control or actuator is not actuated.

The directional lock 1800 can be incorporated into the end of the yoke/collector 202 and the body of the yoke/collector 202 can be hollow enough to receive the filament within its body. The headgear 200, or any portion thereof, is described in commonly owned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0082217, U.S. Patent Application No. 14/856,193, filed Sep. 16, 2015, and International It can be configured according to any of the embodiments disclosed in Publication No. 2016/043603, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Referring to FIG. 6, each front strap 208 can have a free end to which a connector 209 can be attached. Each connector 209 can engage a complementary strap connector 203 located on yoke 202 . Preferably, yoke 202 is substantially elongated and includes strap connectors 203 located at or near each end of yoke 202 .

The connection between the front straps 208 and the yoke 202 can be any suitable form of connection, such as a snap-fit connection, a screw and thread type connection, or a hook-like connection. In one form, each strap connector 203 includes a cap 210 located at each end of the yoke 202, as shown in FIG. Each cap 210 may include an opening, such as an aperture or recess, configured to receive the connector 209 of the front strap 208 in a snap-fit configuration to attach the yoke 202 to the front strap 208 of the headgear assembly 200. can.

As noted above, yoke 202 may also be configured to attach to frame 106 of mask 102 . In one form, frame 106 can include a recessed area configured to receive at least a portion of yoke 202 therein when yoke 202 and frame 106 are attached together. A cover sleeve or front portion 222 may be configured to facilitate removable connection of yoke 202 with frame 106 .

7-9 show another example embodiment of a yoke 600 and a cushion or seal 502 coupled to a frame 500. FIG. Yoke 600, seal 502 and/or frame 500 may be similar to yoke 202, cushion or seal 104 and/or frame 106, respectively, except as otherwise noted below. Frame 500 includes a yoke channel 516 configured to receive yoke 600 in use. Yoke channel 516 is formed or defined by upper wall 522 , rear wall 524 and lower wall 526 . Yoke 600 , for example, has increased asymmetry between the top and bottom edges of yoke 600 compared to yoke 202 . In the illustrated embodiment, the top edge of yoke 600 is straighter than the bottom edge. The asymmetry advantageously provides improved visual cues as to correct orientation for assembly of yoke 600 to frame 500 and helps prevent incorrect assembly.

As shown in FIG. 8, yoke channel 516 includes connector recesses 528 in top wall 522 and bottom wall 526 . In the illustrated embodiment, a connector recess 528 is positioned adjacent to or in close proximity to each lateral end of yoke channel 516 . Connector recess 528 at least partially retains retaining lip 523 at or along the front edge of yoke channel 516 (e.g., at or along the front edges of the interior facing surfaces of top wall 522 and bottom wall 526). defined or formed in Yoke 600 includes connector protrusions 628 that project rearwardly from the top, bottom, and/or rear surfaces of yoke 600 . In the illustrated embodiment, the yoke 600 includes connector projections 628 on each side of the center of the yoke 600 . In the illustrated embodiment, the yoke 600 includes a front yoke portion 602 and a rear yoke portion 604 that are coupled together, as described in further detail herein, and the connector protrusion 628 is formed in the rear yoke portion 604. . Connector recess 528 is configured to receive connector protrusion 628 when frame 500 and yoke 600 are coupled together to form a snap-fit connection between frame 500 and yoke 600 . When frame 500 and yoke 600 are coupled together, retaining lip 523 engages yoke 600 forward of connector projection 628 to contribute to the snap-fit connection and retain yoke 600 within yoke channel 516 . In the illustrated embodiment, connector protrusion 628 and connector recess 528 have a square or rectangular profile, which restrains yoke 600 from rotating out of yoke channel 516, for example, in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. be done.

In some embodiments, yoke 600 has an elliptical or substantially elliptical cross-section, for example, as shown in FIG. This shape advantageously reduces the size or volume of the yoke 600 and/or provides an improved aesthetic appearance. The lock washer housing 646, discussed in further detail herein, is D-shaped, substantially can have a D-shaped, U-shaped, or substantially U-shaped cross-section, for example, as shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C. The washer housings 646 can be positioned in opposite vertical orientations relative to each other. In other words, one of the washer housings 646, eg, the left washer housing 646 as shown in FIG. 646 can be oriented as a downward facing U-shape. This configuration and orientation provides storage for excess filament used in the self-adjusting headgear system, which may be referred to herein as line tracks 630, 632, as discussed in further detail herein. A portion or collection portion can advantageously serve to extend above and below the left washer housing 646 and the right washer housing 646, respectively. As shown in FIG. 11, in the illustrated embodiment, the yoke 600 or the central portion of the yoke 600 has a depth D that is the same as, or similar to, or corresponds to the depth of the yoke channel 516; Yoke 600 does not or substantially does not protrude from yoke channel 516 . This advantageously reduces the overall size of the frame 500 and yoke 600 assembly.

As shown in FIGS. 10A and 12, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear or rear surface of the yoke 600 has four ends or sides on each side of the central portion of the yoke 600 such that the yoke 600 has a stepped depth. A rear step is included at the directional end. In other words, the lateral portion of yoke 600 that is positioned laterally outward of yoke channel 516 when yoke 600 is coupled to frame 500 is positioned within yoke channel 516 when yoke 600 is coupled to frame 500 . It has a depth greater than the depth D of the center portion of the yoke 600 where it is connected. These steps form or define frame abutment surfaces 605 at the transition between the central and lateral portions of yoke 600 . When the yoke 600 is coupled to the frame 500, each of the frame abutment surfaces 605 abuts, or is adjacent or adjacent to, one of the lateral edges 505 of the frame 500, as shown in FIG. position. Frame abutment surface 605 and lateral edge 505 help to properly align yoke 600 with frame 500 during assembly. Frame abutment surface 605 and lateral edge 505 also or alternatively provide a more secure connection between yoke 600 and frame 500 . Reducing the depth of the central portion of yoke 600 advantageously reduces the overall size of the frame 500 and yoke 600 assembly.

As shown in FIGS. 9-11, in the illustrated embodiment, yoke 600 includes front yoke portion 602 and rear yoke portion 604 . Yoke 600 may also include two end caps 606 (as shown in FIG. 14), one at each lateral end of yoke 600 . In the illustrated embodiment, front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 are formed as separate components that are coupled together. 9-11, the dividing line 603 (shown in FIG. 11) between the front yoke 602 and the rear yoke 604 is centered or generally centered. Thereby, the easiness of manufacture can be improved.

The front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 can be coupled together via a snap fit. In the illustrated embodiment, the front yoke 602 includes a yoke fastener 613 that projects rearwardly from the rear surface of the front yoke 602 . In the illustrated embodiment, the yoke fastener 613 is vertically and/or laterally centered or generally centered with respect to the yoke front 602 and is laterally elongate. Yoke back 604 is sized, shaped, and positioned to receive yoke fastener 613 to form a snap-fit connection when yoke front 602 and yoke back 604 are coupled together. , including fastener aperture 615 . The central connection between front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 via yoke fastener 613 and fastener aperture 615 provides greater stiffness to the connection between front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 and/or the yoke Twisting support between the front portion 602 and the yoke rear portion 604 is provided or restrained. In some embodiments, front yoke 602 instead includes fastener apertures 615 and rear yoke 604 includes yoke fasteners 613 . In some embodiments, the fastener aperture 615 extends along the top edge and/or the bottom edge of the fastener aperture 615 (e.g., along the lateral direction) and the top edge and/or the bottom edge. It includes one or more fastener ridges 617 projecting from the edge into the fastener aperture 615 . Yoke fastener 613 is sized, shaped, and positioned to receive fastener ridges 617 to form a snap-fit connection along upper and/or lower surfaces of yoke fastener 613 . one or more corresponding notches 619 (shown in FIG. 11) extending along the lateral direction (eg, along the lateral direction). In some embodiments, fastener aperture 615 includes one or more notches 619 and yoke fastener 613 includes one or more fastener ridges 617 .

FIGS. 22-24 show a variation of yoke 600 in which yoke back portion 604 includes fastener recesses 615 ′ instead of fastener apertures 615 . Fastener recess 615 ′ does not extend through the entire thickness of yoke rear 604 . The yoke front 602 includes a rearwardly extending yoke fastener 613'. Fastener recess 615' is sized and shaped to receive yoke fastener 613' to form a friction fit or interference fit connection when front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 are coupled together; positioned as such. In some such embodiments, the fastener recess 615' includes one or more interference fit ridges 617' on the upper and/or lower surfaces or edges of the fastener recess 615'. In the illustrated embodiment, the interference fit ridge 617' is elongated and extends the full depth of the fastener recess 615'. Interference fit ridge 617' is interposed between fastener recess 615' and yoke fastener 613' to help couple front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 together, providing a friction or interference fit. helps to generate This configuration advantageously allows for easier manufacturing, provides a cleaner finish (no apertures in the yoke back portion 604), and/or (the yoke 600 is fully enclosed along its length). Ingress of dirt or other debris into the line tracks 630, 632 (due to the lack of apertures that would allow the can help.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 9-11, the yoke back 604 has an upper alignment bead that projects forwardly from the yoke back 604 and extends along the length of the yoke back 604 adjacent or close to the top surface of the yoke back 604. 612a and/or a lower alignment bead 612b projecting forwardly from the yoke back portion 604 and extending the length of the yoke back portion 604 adjacent or adjacent the lower surface of the yoke back portion 604; The yoke front 602 has an upper alignment groove 614a in the rear surface of the yoke front 602 that extends along the length of the yoke front 602 adjacent or close to the upper surface of the yoke front 602, and/or the yoke front It includes a lower alignment groove 614b in the rear surface of the yoke front 602 that extends the length of the yoke front 602 adjacent or adjacent the lower surface of 602 . Upper alignment groove 614a and/or lower alignment groove 614b receive upper alignment bead 612a and/or lower alignment bead 612b, respectively, when front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 are coupled together. Alignment beads 612 a , 612 b and alignment grooves 614 a , 614 b help to precisely align front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 . Alignment beads 612a, 612b and alignment grooves 614a, 614b may also or alternatively resist or support twisting between yoke front 602 and yoke rear 604, for example. In some embodiments, the alignment beads 612a, 612b and the alignment grooves 614a, 614b can positively engage each other, eg, in the form of a friction fit or snap fit connection.

The end caps 606 clamp the front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 by clipping over or snap fitting over or onto the lateral ends of the front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 . It can help secure them together. End caps 606 may also allow connection of front straps (eg, front straps 208 ) of headgear (eg, headgear 200 ) to yoke 600 . In some embodiments, each end cap 606 is overmolded over the braided portion of the front strap.

As shown in FIGS. 15-21, the lateral ends of the front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 include or are formed by end cap inserts 618 . End cap inserts 618 may be integrally formed with or attached to the lateral ends of front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 . End cap insert 618 has a reduced size or profile compared to the lateral portion of yoke 600 . End cap 606 has an internal cavity 609 that receives end cap insert 618 . During assembly, the end cap 606 can be connected over or snapped onto the end cap insert 618 in a rotational or hinged manner, as shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 20, each end cap 606 includes a retention hole 605 on one side (eg, the rear side in the illustrated embodiment) and a retention hole 605 on the opposite side (eg, the front side in the illustrated embodiment). Includes notch 607 . In other embodiments, the positions of retention holes 605 and retention notches 607 can be reversed. The positioning of the retention holes 605 at the rear of the end cap 606 in the illustrated embodiment advantageously conceals the retention holes 605 in use, thereby providing an improved aesthetic appearance. A retention notch 607 extends forward from the endcap cavity 609 into the endcap 606 . The end cap insert 618 includes a first retention feature 616 on one of the front and rear surfaces (eg, extending rearwardly from the yoke rear 604 portion of the end cap insert 618 in the illustrated embodiment) and on the opposite side. includes a second retention feature 617 (eg, extending forward from the yoke front 602 portion of the endcap insert 618 in the illustrated embodiment). To attach the end cap 606 to the yoke 600, eg, to the end cap insert 618, the retention hole 605 engages the first retention feature 616, as shown in FIG. First retention feature 616 then acts as a hinge point or pivot point, and end cap 606 is held until second retention feature 617 and retention notch 607 engage, for example, at a ridge or snap fit joint. , pivots on the end cap insert 618 in the direction indicated by the arrow in FIG. The hinged connection allows the endcap insert 618 length L (shown in FIG. 18) to be reduced to provide a strong connection between the yoke 600 and the endcap 606. FIG. As such, the end cap 606 can taper more steeply. Reducing the overall length of end cap insert 618, end cap 606 and/or yoke 600 may advantageously reduce or minimize yoke 600 contacting or digging into the patient's face. can.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first retention feature 616 is or includes an elliptical or stadium-shaped post extending rearwardly from the yoke rear portion 604 . The first retention feature 616 has a length or depth selected such that the outer or rearmost surface of the first retention feature 616 is flush or substantially flush with the rear surface of the yoke rear portion 604 . have. This increases the contact area and interaction between the end cap 606 and the end cap insert 618, increasing retention. Accordingly, the connection between the end cap 606 and the end cap insert 618 can resist greater torsional forces along the length of the yoke 600 and/or rotational forces about the joint.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second retention feature 617 is or includes a raised tab that extends forward from the yoke front 602 . The second retention feature 617 has a reduced length or depth compared to the first retention feature 616 so that the end cap 606 can pass through the second retention feature 617 during assembly. can. In the illustrated embodiment, the second retention feature 617 has a chamfered lead-in 617a on one edge, eg, a lateral edge (relative to the yoke 600) in the illustrated embodiment, thereby , the end cap 606 can be more easily hinged or pivoted over and/or on the second retention feature 617 .

In some embodiments, the end cap 606 is a braided element of an automatic headgear adjustment mechanism, e.g. 343,711 and PCT Application No. PCT/NZ2014/000074, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. incorporated in the specification. A core element or filament 642 can extend within the braided element. An end cap 606 can connect the braided elements, and thus the headgear, to the yoke 600 to provide a closed loop headgear system.

As described herein, in some embodiments, the yoke 600 provides collections or line tracks 630, 632 for core elements such as filaments 642 used in self-adjustable or self-adjusting headgear systems. can be formed. In some configurations, the yoke 600 can provide separate spaces for each of the filaments 642 (eg, line tracks 630, 632). As shown in FIG. 10C, yoke front 602 includes upper line track 630 and lower line track 632 . A line track divider 634 projects rearwardly from the rear or inner surface of the front yoke 602 . Line track divider 634 extends generally obliquely over a portion of the length of yoke front 602 to transition from a relative upper position to a relative lower position with respect to yoke 600 . In the illustrated embodiment, a divider wall 635 extends between each of the washer housings 646 and the opposing line track. Divider wall 635 separates the opposing line track from washer housing 646, thereby inhibiting the free end of filament 642 from becoming pinched within opposing washer housing 646 during retraction. In the illustrated embodiment, the line tracks 630, 632 are not symmetrically the same because the top and bottom edges of the yoke 600 are asymmetrical.

FIG. 14 shows a variation of yoke 600 in which line tracks 630 , 632 extend into and terminate in endcap 606 . Accordingly, the length of line tracks 630 , 632 extends beyond the ends of front yoke 602 and rear yoke 604 . This increases the length of filament 642 that can accumulate within the yoke 600, thereby increasing the range of headgear size adjustment or variability. The headgear assembly 200 defines headgear loops that extend around the user's head in use. The filaments 642 form part of a headgear adjustment mechanism that allows the length of the headgear loops to be extended during application and removal of the mask system. In some such embodiments, the length of each of the line tracks 630, 632 can be increased or elongated by approximately 5 mm. In such an embodiment, the overall length of the headgear loops may thus increase by about 10 mm in the extended state.

25A-25D show an embodiment of a directional lock 1800 comprising a housing 1810, first and second locking elements (eg, washers 1820, 1822), and a core member or filament 1830. FIG. Housing 1810 includes a first chamber 1840 and a second chamber 1842, wherein the first chamber 1840 and the second chamber 1842 are configured to receive a first lock washer 1820 and a second lock washer 1822, respectively. there is Washer 1820 can be made from a material that provides at least some resistance to wear from friction (eg, polypropylene, high density polyethylene, aluminum, steel). In the illustrated configuration, first chamber 1840 and second chamber 1842 are separated by inner wall 1812 of housing 1810 . However, in other configurations, the first chamber 1840 and the second chamber 1842 are not necessarily physically separate spaces, but can be part of one chamber, for example. Housing 1810 has two end walls 1814 which, along with inner walls 1812, have elongated core openings 1860 through which core members or filaments 1830 pass. Core member or filament 1830 can be an elongated thread, fiber, string, wire or filament such as nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene fiber or metal (eg, aluminum, copper, silver) wire. Advantageously, materials can be selected that provide at least some resistance to friction, abrasion and splaying. Using other shapes or geometries, including rectangular cross-sections (e.g., ribbons, bands or belts), or multiple threads, fibers, strings, wires or filaments (e.g., cables or braided or stranded wires) can be done. All of these may be referred to as core member 1830 . The material or materials of the core member can be selected to be substantially inelastic, so core member 1830 can remain substantially the same length under extensional strain. . The core openings 1860 can be substantially aligned with each other. The core opening 1860 of the end wall 1814 shown on the right side of the figure can be larger than one or both of the inner wall 1812 and the core opening 1860 of the end wall 1814 shown on the left side of the figure. This allows manipulation or biasing of the path of core member 1830 through housing 1810 . First chamber 1840 and second chamber 1842 are each bounded by an inner wall 1812 , one of end walls 1814 , and a pair of side walls 1816 between end walls 1814 of housing 1810 . extended. First chamber 1840 and second chamber 1842 are configured to be open at one or both of the top and bottom of housing 1810 .

First chamber 1840 and second chamber 1842 each have a pair of washer retainers 1850 aligned with opposing sidewalls 1816 of housing 1810 . A pair of washer retainers 1850 are configured to pivotally retain one of the first lock washer 1820 or the second lock washer 1822 within the respective first chamber 1840 or second chamber 1842 . The washer retainer comprises a circular bushing 1852 and an elongated slot 1854, the circular bushing 1852 intersecting the bottom of the housing to form an inlet. The inlet is configured to allow first lock washer 1820 and/or second lock washer 1822 to be received within washer retainer 1850 . Slots 1854 extend radially from circular bushing 1852 toward the top of housing 1810 .

First washer 1820 and second washer 1822 each comprise a cylindrical shaft 1824 and an arm 1826 extending from their respective shaft 1824 . Cylindrical shaft 1824 has substantially the same width W as housing 1810 and arms 1826 are narrower to fit within first and second chambers 1840 and 1842 . In the illustrated configuration, the arm 1826 comprises a first section 1872 and a second section 1874, the first section 1872 extending radially or vertically from the cylindrical shaft 1824 and the second section 1874 extending from the first section 1874. It extends at an obtuse angle from the end of section 1872 . First section 1872 of arm 1826 of first washer 1820 is shorter than first section 1872 of arm 1826 of second washer 1822 . The angle between first section 1872 and second section 1874 of arm 1826 of first washer 1820 is greater than the corresponding angle of second washer 1822 . These angles are such that the second section 1874 of one or both of the first washer 1820 and second washer 1822 is aligned with the corresponding wall of the housing 1810 (eg, inner wall 1812 and end wall 1812, respectively) at one location of the washers 1820, 1822. It can be selected to lie substantially flat against the wall 1814). A second section 1874 of arm 1826 includes a centrally located circular aperture 1876 configured to receive core member 1830 . First chamber 1840 and second chamber 1842 differ in size according to the size of the washers contained therein, i.e., first washer 1820 is smaller than second washer 1822, so first chamber 1840 is larger than second chamber. smaller than 1842.

The cylindrical shafts 1824 of the first lock washer 1820 and the second lock washer 1822 have substantially the same diameter as the circular bushing 1852 of the washer retainer 1850 and are received and retained by the circular bushing 1852 in a snap-fit configuration. is configured as A snap-fit configuration is provided by the entrance of circular bushing 1852 being narrower than the diameter of cylindrical shaft 1824 . A slot 1854 in the washer retainer 1850 allows the inlet to flex open to improve the ease with which the first lock washer 1820 and the second lock washer 1822 can be pushed through the inlet and assembled to the housing 1810. is configured as The first washer 1820 and the second washer 1822 can pivot back and forth about a central axis extending through the cylindrical shaft 1824 when assembled within the first and second chambers 1840, 1842 of the housing 1810. .

Core member 1830 can be configured to pass through core opening 1860 of housing 1810 and apertures 1876 of first and second washers 1820 and 1822 . By applying tension to core member 1830, first lock washer 1820 and second lock washer 1822 pivot rearwardly and/or forwardly between locked and/or open positions. Figures 25A and 25B show the directional lock in a locked configuration in which a force is applied to the core member 1830 (as indicated by the arrow) in a direction toward the left side of the figure. In one embodiment, the force applied to core member 1830 in this configuration causes first lock washer 1820 and second lock washer 1822 to pivot in a counterclockwise direction such that the path of core member 1830 through directional lock 1800 is non-flexible. be linear or serpentine and/or resist movement of the core member 1830 by, for example, increasing the contact area and contact pressure between the core member 1830 and the first and second lock washers 1820 and 1822 An increasing frictional force is applied. Figures 25C and 25D show the directional lock in an open or unlocked configuration in which a force is applied to the core member 1830 (as indicated by the arrow) in a direction toward the right side of the figure. In this configuration, first lock washer 1820 and second lock washer 1822 can pivot in a clockwise direction such that circular aperture 1876 and core opening 1860 are substantially linearly aligned. This provides a smooth and low-friction path and/or reduced contact pressure such that core member 1830 is pulled substantially freely through directional lock 1800 . Based on the different amounts of frictional force applied to core member 1830 in the closed and open positions, the amount of force required to move core member 1830 through directional lock 1800 can be varied.

The illustrated embodiment of the directional lock 1800 utilizes a first lock washer 1820 and a second lock washer 1822, although fewer or more lock washers can be used. The number of lock washers, the type, length and thickness of core member 1830, and the geometry of lock washers 1820 determine the amount of force ( ("yield force") and the amount of force required to open the lock while in the open configuration ("opening force").

Further details of the operation of directional lock 1800 are described above and in Applicant's patent application PCT/NZ2014/000074, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

26-43, several configurations for securing a respiratory interface, such as a respiratory mask, to the wearer's head and facilitating convenient removal of the interface are described in further detail. 26-43, the respiratory interface is a full face mask with upper and lower headgear straps on each side of the user's head that connect the mask to the rear portion of the headgear. Providing a mask, headgear, or other portion of the interface assembly with a locking or retaining force that tends to constrain or prevent extension of the interface assembly, and with less (e.g., significantly less) resistance than the locking or retaining force. One or more directional locks configured to allow contraction of the interface assembly against it can be incorporated. Preferably, the directional lock is configured to offer little or substantially no resistance to contraction of the interface assembly. In the illustrated configuration, the interface assembly incorporates a release mechanism or configuration that allows a user to manually release the directional lock to facilitate extension of the interface assembly. Although the illustrated release mechanisms or configurations have been applied to full face masks having upper and lower headgear straps, the release mechanisms or configurations are particularly useful in the nasal mask and two-strap headgear configurations of FIGS. It can be used with, or modified for use with, other types of mask and headgear configurations.

FIGS. 26-34 show a mask assembly that can include a cushion module 2020, a mask frame 2030, and a headgear configuration 200 including a yoke 202 in the configuration shown. 28-34 show various views of the mask assembly with the straps 208 and rear portion 204 of the headgear 200 omitted. Yoke 202 may be attached to rear portion 204 of headgear 200 via one or more upper straps 208 and/or one or more lower straps 208 . In the illustrated configuration, the headgear 200 includes an upper strap 208 and a lower strap 208 on each side of the mask assembly. Advantageously, the upper strap 208 and/or the lower strap 208 can be coupled to the yoke 202 using one or more manually releasable or releasable locks, such as releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. An actuator or release element 2044 can be coupled to one or more releasable locks 2048a, 2048b to allow manual release or unlocking of the locks 2048a, 2048b. Headgear attachment posts, including lower headgear attachment posts 2012a, 2012b and upper headgear attachment posts 2012c, 2012d, may be provided to connect the straps 208 of the headgear 200 to the yoke 202. As shown in FIG. The yoke 202, mask frame 2030 and cushion module 2020 can be separate components that can be disassembled and reassembled. In other configurations, any combination of yoke 202, mask frame 2030 and cushion module 2020 can be integrated together. Accordingly, although the yoke 202 is described herein as forming part of the headgear 200, in other configurations the yoke 202 is integral with part of the mask frame 2030 or the cushion module 2020. or formed as part of such.

Generally, the mask assembly of FIGS. 26-34 is similar in construction to the mask assembly of FIGS. 1-24, except that the mask assembly of FIGS. 26-34 is a full face mask rather than the nasal mask of FIGS. Different implementations in form. The mask assembly of FIGS. 26-34 includes a frame 2030 configured to connect with the cushion module 2020 and the yoke 202. As shown in FIG. Frame 2030 is configured to connect to a gas conduit (not shown) that delivers a flow of breathing gas to the user through cushion module 2020 . The illustrated frame 2030 has a central portion 2032 that defines an internal passageway configured to channel the flow of breathing gas from the gas conduit to the cushion module 2020 . The central portion 2032 and/or internal passage of the frame 2030 extends vertically and overlies the central portion 2022 of the cushion module 2020 when the mask assembly is viewed from the front. A plurality of arms 2034 arc rearwardly from the central portion 2032 of the frame 2030 and generally follow the shape of the cushion module 2020 . In the illustrated configuration, the frame 2030 has four arms 2034, including a right upper arm, a left upper arm, a right lower arm and a left lower arm. The upper arm 2034 and the lower arm 2034 can spread apart from each other in the anterior-posterior direction. The illustrated upper arm 2034 extends upwardly away from the lower arm 2034 in the fore-and-aft direction. The lower arm 2034 can have a generally or substantially horizontal orientation. Such a configuration can accommodate the vents 2024 of the cushion module 2020 and/or orient the headgear straps 208 in a desired direction to comfortably achieve a sufficient seal.

Cushion module 2020 can include a relatively rigid housing 2021 and a relatively soft cushion or seal 104 . In the illustrated configuration, the housing 2021 maintains the desired shape of the cushion module 2020, allows connection to the frame 2030, and defines at least a portion of the breathing chamber of the cushion module 2020. A cushion or seal 104 is removably or permanently coupled to the housing 2021 and is configured to provide a seal against the user's face to seal the breathing chamber. In the illustrated configuration, the housing 2021 also includes an exhaust port 2024, which provides a leak-restricted pathway configured to allow exhalation of exhaled air from the breathing chamber and maintain a positive pressure within the breathing chamber. do. An exhaust port 2024 is located above the inlet opening. The exhaust port includes a plurality of vent holes through housing 2021 . In other configurations, exhaust port 2024 may be located elsewhere, such as within frame 2030, for example.

Yoke 202 is configured to be removably coupled to frame 2030 such that headgear 200 can be coupled to cushion module 2020 via frame 2030 . The yoke 202 has a shape similar to that of the frame 2030 when viewed from the front. Yoke 202 includes a central portion 2202 that overlies part or all of central portion 2032 of frame 2030 . Yoke 202 also includes a plurality of arms 2204 that arc rearwardly from central portion 2202 . In some configurations, the number of arms 2204 on yoke 202 equals the number of arms 2034 on frame 2030 . In the illustrated configuration, yoke 202 includes left and right upper arms 2204 and left and right lower arms 2204 that correspond to upper and lower arms 2034 and 2034 of frame 2030, respectively. In some configurations, arms 2204 of yoke 202 are longer than corresponding arms 2034 of frame 2030 and thus extend rearwardly beyond the ends of corresponding arms 2034 of frame 2030 . Arms 2204 of yoke 202 can extend beyond housing 2021 of cushion module 2020 such that ends of arms 2204 are located adjacent to or behind seal 104 .

Frame 2030 may include one or more walls or lips 2036 extending outwardly from the forward face of arms 2034 and adjacent arms 2204 of yoke 202 . Walls 2036 may be configured to couple yoke 202 to frame 2030, such as by a snap-fit arrangement, or to restrain or prevent rotation of yoke 202 relative to frame 2030 about one or more axes. can play a role. In the illustrated configuration, a single wall 2036 extends along central portion 2032 and upper arm 2034 , and a single additional wall 2036 extends along upper arm 2034 and lower arm 2034 on each of the left and right sides of frame 2030 . extends between each of the

Yoke 202 can include a front component 2042 and a rear component 2046 that are removably or permanently coupled together similar to yokes 202 and 600 described with respect to FIGS. 1-24. The yoke 202 can define an interior space configured to receive excess portions of core members or filaments (eg, filaments 642, 1830) utilized by the directional locks 2048a, 2048b. Although not shown, the yoke 202 can divide the interior space into separate sections for each of the filaments.

As discussed above, the yoke 202 or other portions of the mask assemblies of FIGS. 26-34 may include or support one or more actuators or release elements 2044. Release element 2044 may be configured to release, unlock, or open one or more releasable locks, such as releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. In the illustrated configuration, actuation of the release element 2044 prevents the directional lock from moving to the locked position in response to extension of the headgear 200 or the entire mask assembly. Thus, release element 2044 allows intentional or manual deactivation of the directional lock. In other words, normal operation of the directional lock (eg, moving to a locked position in response to extension of headgear 200) is temporarily suspended while release element 2044 is actuated. However, release element 2044 is contemplated for use with other types of headgear locking configurations. When used with other types of locks, the release element 2044 can be configured to physically move the lock to the released position when activated to facilitate extension of the headgear 200 or the entire mask assembly. . The specific actuation of release element 2044 is utilized to achieve the purpose of allowing manual or intentional release of the lock, allowing extension of headgear 200 or the entire mask assembly with reduced effort. can be configured for specific locks.

The release element 2044 may come in different forms or shapes (eg, button, lever or handle) and be provided at different locations on the yoke 202 or another portion of the mask assembly. Advantageously, in one configuration, the release element 2044 is located at least partially on the front side of the yoke 202 or mask and/or at least on the top side of the yoke or mask, such that a user grasping the mask can Force can be applied to release element 2044 naturally or intuitively (eg, by squeezing or pinching release element 2044 toward yoke 202) during the process of installing or removing the mask assembly. Figures 33 and 34 show release element 2044 in the released and actuated positions, respectively.

In the illustrated configuration, release element 2044 is in the form of an elongated button or bar extending along and spaced from the upper edge of yoke 202 . Release element 2044 may be curved similar to yoke 202 such that the lateral ends of release element 2044 are positioned rearwardly of the central portion. Such a configuration can provide an attractive appearance while allowing access to the release element 2044 from the center and sides of the mask assembly. In other configurations, release element 2044 can be positioned along the lower edge of yoke 202 .

A user may actuate the release element 2044 in the process of gripping the yoke 202 or mask, thus intuitively triggering release of one or more releasable locks (eg, releasable locks 2048a, 2048b). Other configurations are possible in which the release element 2044 is positioned relative to the yoke 202, as can be done. For example, positioning a pair of opposing release elements 2044 such that a user can push the elements 2044 toward each other (e.g., horizontally, vertically, or otherwise relative to the orientation shown). can be done. In such a configuration, each release element 2044 can operate one or more releasable locks (eg, 2048a , 2048b).

In the illustrated configuration, release element 2044 is coupled to yoke 202 to limit or guide relative movement of release element 2044 . In particular, release element 2044 includes a first guide element 2044a and yoke 202 includes a second guide element 2044b (Fig. 32). The first guide element 2044a is captured for sliding movement within the second guide element 2044b or vice versa to at least substantially limit the transitional movement of the release element 2044 relative to the yoke 202. do. However, other configurations may allow other types of movement, such as, for example, rotational movement. In the illustrated configuration, the first guide element 2044a is an elongated, flat plate or bar and the second guide element 2044b has a shape that corresponds partially or completely to the shape of the first guide element 2044a. is a slot surrounded by However, these configurations can be reversed. The slot can be defined by the yoke 202 or by a separate structure attached to the yoke 202 . The illustrated configuration advantageously permits movement of the release element 2044 toward and away from the upper edge of the yoke 202, while allowing smooth and/or consistent actuation of the release element 2044. Relative movement in other directions is inhibited or substantially prevented.

In some configurations, a biasing element such as a spring or other resilient element 2045 is included, for example, between the release element 2044 and the yoke 202 such that the releasable locks 2048a, 2048b are locked or locked. Alternatively, it can be configured to bias the release element 2044 toward or to a non-actuated position that allows it to move to the engaged position. In the illustrated configuration, a portion of release element 2044 protrudes from a slot (second guide element 2044b) through an access opening in yoke 202 to form a structure that engages one end of biasing element 2045 (FIG. 31). . Yoke 202 includes structure that engages the other end of biasing element 2045 .

The type of mask or interface utilized in a given mask assembly is based on various related factors such as the type of mask or interface, the number of headgear straps connected to the mask, and the desired donning and doffing procedures, among other possibilities. You can change the number of locks that can be unlocked. In the illustrated configuration, each of the lower straps 208 of the headgear 200 features releasable locks 2048a, 2048b, while the upper straps 208 do not include releasable locks. However, in the illustrated configuration, the top strap 208 includes a directional lock (as described below) that is similar or operates in the same manner as the directional lock 1800 described with reference to FIGS. 1-25. With full face masks, the lower headgear straps often need to be wider than the upper headgear straps for comfortable donning or removal of the full face mask. Thus, in some configurations, only the lower headgear straps may be provided with manually or intentionally releasable locks. Furthermore, the tension in the lower straps during operation tends to be greater than the tension in the upper straps. Therefore, in configurations that incorporate directional locks (or other automatic locks), the locking force of the lock on the lower strap may be greater than that of the upper strap. Therefore, it may be more beneficial to provide a manual or intentional release mechanism for the lock on the lower strap that has a higher locking force, and thus greater resistance to elongation, than the lock on the upper strap. Providing a manual or intentional release mechanism on only a portion of the straps (e.g., the bottom strap) reduces system complexity and overall cost compared to configurations in which each strap is provided with a releasable lock. can be reduced. However, if desired, any of the straps or part of the headgear may be provided with releasable locks. Accordingly, in some configurations, the top strap 208 can be attached with releasable locks on one or both sides thereof. Additionally, in some configurations the lower strap 208 can be attached without a releasable lock. As discussed, in some configurations all of the upper and lower straps 208 can be attached using releasable locks. Additionally, in some configurations, releasable locks may be provided on the back, top or sides of the headgear to allow extension of the various headgear portions during installation and removal.

One or more releasable locks 2048a, 2048b connect to the release element 2044 either directly or via an actuation arrangement configured to transmit movement from the release element 2044 to the releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. be able to. This actuation configuration may be referred to herein as coupling member 2049 . In some configurations, coupling member 2049 can be tensioned by movement of release element 2044, thereby transmitting force from release element 2044 to one or more releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. It can be an inelastic string, cable or wire. In some configurations, coupling member 2049 can be or include a Bowden cable, or a configuration similar to a Bowden cable, wherein movement at one end of the cable results in corresponding movement at the other end of the cable. includes an internal cable and guide member or fixed guide path such that a In some configurations, the coupling member 2049 is a pull-only configuration in which the coupling member 2049 transmits a pulling force from the release element 2044 to the releasable locks 2048a, 2048b and utilizes a return biasing element to move the coupling member 2049 in the return direction. is. In other configurations, coupling member 2049 can be a push-pull configuration that can transmit pushing or pulling forces as desired. The illustrated connecting member 2049 does not include a continuous outer housing typical of many Bowden cable configurations, but instead includes one housing such as central guide 2047a, intermediate guide 2047b and lateral guides 2047 (generally or collectively 2047). It is guided along a fixed length path defined by one or more guide features. Guide 2047 is configured to define or alter the path of coupling member 2049 between release element 2044 and releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. In the illustrated configuration, guide 2047 is an eyelet through which connecting member 2049 passes. In the illustrated configuration, a single coupling member 2049 is connected to and actuates both releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. However, in other embodiments, each releasable lock 2048a, 2048b may be actuated by a dedicated coupling member 2049, or a single coupling member 2049 may be used by multiple locks to control multiple releasable locks. It can be divided into partial members. Although cables are shown herein, connecting members 2049 may be of any suitable configuration, such as one or more rods, linkages, or the like.

44-46, 47A-47C, 48A-48B and 49, one example of releasable lock 2048a is shown in detail. Releasable lock 2048b may be of the same or similar configuration (eg, mirror image) as releasable lock 2048a. Further, while the basic components and operation of releasable lock 2048a can be the same or similar to directional lock 1800 described above, the notable exception is the release feature and shape of lock washer 1820 as described herein. there is a difference. Releasable lock 2048a can comprise one or more washers 1820, a biasing spring 2051, and a channel 2052 that receives release member 2053. As shown in FIG. In the illustrated configuration, channel 2052 is defined by yoke 202 , but in other configurations channel 2052 may be defined by structure separate from and assembled to yoke 202 . The releasing member 2053 is attached to the connecting member 2049 at the connecting member connecting portion 2055 . One or more locking elements or lock washers 1820 may be received within washer housing 646 . In the illustrated configuration, multiple (eg, five) lock washers 1820 are provided. However, the actual number may vary based on the desired locking force of lock 2048a among other factors.

Release member 2053 is free to slide within channel 2052 . The release member 2053 may move the lock washer 1820 to the released or unlocked position or hold the lock washer 1820 in the released or unlocked position (preventing the lock washer 1820 from moving away therefrom). Additionally, it is moveable into selective engagement with lock washer 1820 . As noted above, in the unlocked or unlocked position of the lock washer 1820, movement of the filaments (not shown, e.g., 642, 1830) in the direction of elongation of the associated strap 208 is not resisted or A significantly reduced resistance compared to the locked position is possible. Release member 2053 is moved to an actuated position (engaging or blocking lock washer 1820 ) or is actuated by release element 2044 via coupling member 2049 . This position may be referred to as the unlocked or open position of the release mechanism or releasable lock 2048a and is shown in Figures 45 and 47B. A biasing spring 2051, or another suitable biasing arrangement, keeps the release member 2053 away from the lock washer 1820, which is free to move and operate normally (free to move to a locked position in response to movement in the extension direction). It is configured to return to the operative position. This position can be referred to as the locked, engaged, operable or normal position of the release mechanism or engagable lock 2048a and is shown in FIGS. 44 and 47A.

In the unactuated position of release member 1830, washer 1820 can move between unlocked and locked positions in response to contraction and extension movement of strap 208 or headgear 200, respectively. As discussed with reference to FIGS. 25A-25D, when washer 1820 is allowed to move or pivot, movement of filament or core member 1830 in the direction of elongation may result in movement between core member 1830 and washer 1820. can be limited (eg, restrained or prevented) by friction of Conversely, when washer 1820 is held in the disengaged position, friction between core member 1830 and washer 1820 is reduced and movement of core member 1830 in the extension direction is greater than in the locked position. become easier.

48B and 49, each of the washers 1820 can include one or more protrusions 1821a, 1821b. These projections 1821a, 1821b move the washer 1820 to the unlocked position or prevent the washer 1820 from moving away from the unlocked position, thus allowing the core member 1830 in the extension direction (as well as the retraction direction) to move. An engagement surface can be defined that is configured to selectively engage the release member 2053 to allow relatively free movement of the . The release member 2053 can include any suitable number of actuators 2054a, 2054b configured to contact the protrusions 1821a, 1821b. In the illustrated configuration, the actuators 2054 a , 2054 b are in the form of tabs or arms extending from the body portion of the release member 2053 . In the configuration shown, protrusions 1821a, 1821b are located on each side of washer 1820 and are actuated on each side of washer 1820 by corresponding actuators 2054a, 2054b of release member 2053, which are also provided on each side of release member 2053. A balanced force is applied to provide smooth pivotal movement of washer 1820 and reduce or prevent binding.

FIG. 50 shows an alternative washer 1820 that includes only one protrusion 1821a. In the configuration of FIG. 50, a single projection 1821a is centered relative to the pivot structure that housing 1810 engages to reduce or prevent snagging. However, in some configurations, an off-center protrusion 1821 or multiple protrusions may be employed to resist snagging by other methods or structures, such as, for example, pivoting configurations. Other configurations, including multiple protrusions and other geometries, can be used in addition to or in place of protrusion 1821a.

51A-51C, a lock 2058 similar in some aspects to releasable locks 2048a, 2048b is shown, which incorporates washer 1820 into washer housing 646 but is releasable. No mechanism is included. In some configurations, the basic components and operation of lock 2058 may be the same or similar to directional lock 1800 described above, except as noted herein. The illustrated lock 2058 includes multiple washers 1820 . Specifically, in the illustrated configuration, lock 2058 includes three washers. In some configurations, each of locks 2058 includes fewer washers than each of releasable locks 2048a, 2048b. In some such configurations, one or more locks 2058 are employed on each upper strap 208 of the headgear 200 and one or more locks 2048a, 2048b are employed on each lower strap 208 of the headgear 200. It will be appreciated that any desired combination of engageable locks 2048a, 2048b and non-releasable locks 2058 can be used in the same mask assembly.

52-60B, in some aspects it can be similar to the mask assembly shown in FIGS. 26-51C, but a release element in the form of a release handle 2050 in place of the release bar 2044 of FIGS. 26-51C. Another embodiment of a mask assembly is disclosed, comprising: Thus, features not specifically described herein may be the same or similar to corresponding features disclosed herein, or may be of another preferred construction. The release handle 2050 can be attached to the yoke 202 and connected directly or indirectly to the release member 2053 such that pulling on the handle 2050 will transmit force to the release member 2053 . In the illustrated configuration, release handle 2050 is directly connected to release member 2053 . In other configurations, the release handle 2050 can be integrated with the release member 2053 or, among other possibilities, obtain a mechanical advantage, change the direction or type of motion, or The release member 2053 may be connected to the release member 2053 by an intervening structure to avoid interference with other structures. In one embodiment, the release handle 2050 is configured such that the mask wearer can grasp the handle and pull it away from their face, thereby moving the release member 2053 to the actuated position, as shown in FIG. 58B. can be configured to With particular reference to Figures 55 and 56, the release handle 2050 can curve downward from the side portions to the center or front portion such that the upper surface of the center portion is concave. Such a configuration provides an intuitive portion of the release handle 2050 for the user to grasp. As disclosed herein, when the release member 2053 is in the actuated position, the releasable locks 2048a, 2048b are released such that the locks 2048a, 2048b do not significantly resist extension movement of the lower straps 208 of the headgear 200. . When the user releases the release handle 2050, the biasing spring 2051 returns the release member 2053 to its unactuated position, as shown in FIG. 58A, thus allowing the release handle 2050 to retract as well. In such a position, releasable locks 2048a, 2048b operate normally to restrain or prevent extension movement of lower straps 208 of headgear 200. FIG.

61-70, it can be similar in some aspects to the other mask assemblies disclosed herein with reference to FIGS. Another mask assembly is disclosed that includes a release arm 2060 that is additionally or additionally attached to the yoke 202 . Thus, features not specifically described herein may be the same or similar to corresponding features disclosed herein, or may be of another preferred construction. The illustrated mask assembly includes one release arm 2060 on one side of the yoke 202 configured to interact with one of the lower straps 208 of the headgear 200 and the release member 2053 of the releasable lock 2048a. In some configurations, the opposing lower straps 208 of headgear 200 may employ another release arm (which may be a mirror image of release arm 2060) and configured to interact with the other lower release lock 2048b. . Alternatively, a coupling member or other motion transmission arrangement can be configured to couple both locks 2048a, 2048b to movement of a single release arm 2060. FIG. Other configurations may employ release arms 2060 on any or all straps 208 of headgear 200 .

Release arm 2060 is movable relative to yoke 202 . In some configurations, release arm 2060 is configured to pivot relative to yoke 202 or is pivotally supported by yoke 202 . In the illustrated configuration, the yoke 202 includes a pivot 2062 in the form of at least one projection configured to be engaged by, received by, or retained within a complementary feature of the release arm 2060. The protrusion can be cylindrical as shown. Preferably, the yoke 202 includes a pivot 2062 on each of the side facing away from the user and the side facing the user. Accordingly, release arm 2060 may be configured to pivot, rotate, or pivot about a pivot axis defined by pivot 2062 .

The release arm 2060 is configured to directly or indirectly contact or otherwise engage the release member 2053 to move the release member 2053 from the inactivated position to the activated position. In particular, when release arm 2060 rotates about pivot 2062 in a clockwise direction relative to the orientation shown, release arm 2060 contacts engagement portion 2055a of release member 2053 such that release arm 2060 is pushed a sufficient amount. When rotated, it moves the release member 2053 to the actuated position. Thus, when release arm 2060 moves from a substantially planar or horizontal position as shown in FIGS. 66 and 69 to a substantially inclined or elevated position as shown in FIGS. 63, 67 and 70, Release member 2053 moves from the non-actuated position to the actuated position. Conversely, when the release arm 2060 returns to a flat or horizontal position, the release member 2053 can return to an unactuated position, or when the force tending to rotate the release arm 2060 in a clockwise direction is removed. A biasing spring 2051 (or other biasing element) can move the release member 2053 from an actuated position to a non-actuated position such that the release arm 2080 returns toward or to a substantially planar position. can rotate like

Although the release arm 2060 can be configured to be manually operated directly by the user, in the illustrated configuration the release arm 2060 engages the straps 208 of the headgear 200 to remove the yoke 202, mask frame 2030 or cushion. 2020 and headgear straps 208 to act as a result of relative movement. For example, to remove the mask assembly, the user grasps the yoke 202, mask frame 2030 or cushion 2020 (collectively referred to as the "mask" for convenience) and presses at least the bottom of the mask against the user's face (e.g., can be rotated upward and/or outward away from the chin). The straps 208 of the headgear 200 tend to stay in place on the user's head due to frictional contact with the user and due to tension on the headgear straps 208 . Thus, user-initiated movement of the mask causes release arm 2060 to move clockwise relative to the mask, which actuates release member 2053, as described above. As a result, one or both of the releasable locks 2048a, 2048b are released, allowing at least the lower straps 208 of the headgear 200 to extend with reduced or little resistance. Similarly, when the user places the back portion 204 of the headgear on their head and rotates the bottom of the mask away from their face to allow the mask to pass over their nose, the release arm to the mask is released. A clockwise movement of 2060 is provided. Accordingly, one or both of the releasable locks 2048a, 2048b are released, allowing at least the lower straps 208 of the headgear 200 to extend with reduced or little resistance during wearing of the mask assembly. Advantageously, the pivots 2062 can be located below the lower headgear mounting posts 2012a, 2012b so as to reduce the tension in the lower straps 208 that torque the release arms 2060. As shown in FIG. The range of rotation of the release arm 2060 can be limited by the range of linear movement of the release member 2053 and/or contact between the release arm and the yoke 202 . Alternatively, a separate projection or any suitable mechanical stop can be implemented to limit rotation of the release arm.

71-74, the release arm 2060 can include a headgear engagement feature 2084, a pivot connection 2083, a stop 2086 and an engagement surface 2088. As shown in FIG. Headgear engagement feature 2084 is configured to couple release arm 1060 to a portion of headgear 200, such as strap 208 (eg, lower strap) of headgear 200, thereby providing release, as described above. Arms 2060 are configured to move relative to yoke 202 or mask in response to relative movement between headgear 200 and yoke 202 , mask frame 2030 or cushion module 2020 . In the illustrated configuration, the headgear engagement features 2084 are loops or collars configured to encircle a substantial portion or all of the straps 208 of the headgear 200 . The illustrated headgear engagement feature 2084 has a small opening 2085 that allows insertion into the interior space of the loop or collar of the strap 208 . Opening 2085 gives engagement feature 2084 a generally C-shaped cross-section. In other configurations, the loop or collar can form a fully closed loop. For example, headgear 200 (or mounting or removing Other suitable configurations for coupling to other portions of the mask that move relative to each other) may also be used.

In some configurations, headgear engagement feature 2084 provides a removable connection between headgear strap 208 and release arm 2060 . In other configurations, the connection between the headgear engagement features 2084 and the headgear 200 is made permanent, such as by overmolding the headgear engagement features 2084 and the headgear straps 208 (eg, with silicone rubber). can do.

Pivot connection 2083 is configured to allow release arm 2060 to removably or permanently connect with yoke 202 for rotation about the pivot axis defined by pivot 2062 . . In the illustrated configuration, pivot connection 2083 has an inner portion and an outer portion connected by a bridge portion. The inner and outer portions have different shapes such that the overall pivot connection 2083 is asymmetrical. In the illustrated configuration, the inner portion is configured to provide a secure connection with the corresponding pivot 2062 of yoke 202 . Thus, the inner portion encloses a greater portion of the periphery of pivot 2062 and encloses a recess that receives pivot 2062 so as to restrain or prevent deformation that would allow unintended separation of pivot connection 2083 and yoke 202. You have more material to do.

The outer portion is configured to pivot about corresponding pivot 2062 of yoke 202 and is configured to selectively contact engagement portion 2055a (FIGS. 69 and 70) to move release member 2053. It includes an engagement surface 2088 that is lined. Thus, in the illustrated configuration, the outer portion of pivot connection 2083 encloses a smaller portion of the perimeter of corresponding pivot 2062 as compared to the inner portion. Additionally, the outer portion has less material surrounding the pivot 2062 compared to the inner portion.

Engagement surface 2088 is located above a recess configured to receive pivot 2062 . In the illustrated configuration, the engagement surface 2088 is substantially planar (straight from the side) and angled away from the release member 2053 in the direction from the lower end to the upper end of the engagement surface 2088 . there is However, other suitable shapes for engagement surface 2088 (e.g., single curved, multiple curvature) can be employed.

In the illustrated configuration, release arm 2060 includes a stop surface or stop 2086 that limits rotational movement of release arm 2060 relative to yoke 202 . The illustrated stop 2086 is defined by the bridge portion of the pivot connection 2083, particularly by the leading edge of the bridge portion. Upon sufficient rotation of release arm 2060 in a clockwise direction relative to yoke 202 , stop 2086 of release arm 2060 contacts yoke 202 (eg, the top surface of yoke 202 ) to limit movement of release arm 2060 . Such a configuration reduces or prevents excessive force being applied to the release member 2053 . However, in other configurations, the release member 2053 can be configured to define a stop point for rotation of the release arm 2060 and thus can be configured to accommodate expected loads.

Advantageously, the release arms 2060 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the user's head over which the release arms 2060 extend and/or the desired path of the corresponding straps 208 or other portions of the headgear 200 . In the illustrated configuration, the rearward portion (eg, including headgear engagement feature 2084) of release arm 2060 is bent or curved slightly inwardly relative to the forward portion (eg, including pivot connection 2083). to follow the expected curvature of the user's face and/or the desired path of the headgear straps 208 .

Figures 75-84 show a mask assembly 7500 suitable for use with any of the retaining or locking and releasing configurations described above. Mask assembly 7500 includes an alternative configuration for coupling yoke 202 and cushion module 2020 to frame 2030 relative to the previously disclosed assemblies. Accordingly, some features of retention or locking and release configurations have been omitted for clarity. However, the mask assembly 7500 can incorporate or be modified to incorporate any of the retention or locking configurations and/or release configurations disclosed herein. Alternatively, the mask assemblies disclosed above may incorporate, or be modified to incorporate, any of the coupling configurations disclosed with respect to mask assembly 7500 . Moreover, in many respects, the yoke 202, cushion module 2020 and frame 2030 are the same or similar to one or more of the previously described embodiments. Accordingly, features or components of mask assembly 7500 not described in detail below may be the same or similar to corresponding features or components previously described, or may be of another suitable configuration.

In the illustrated configuration, the yoke 202, cushion module 2020 and frame 2030 are separate or separable components that can be selectively assembled and disassembled. The yoke 202, cushion module 2020 and mask frame 2030 can be easily separated from each other and reassembled for easier cleaning of the mask by the user, replacement of components, and easier transport and storage, among other things. can provide a variety of advantages, including being able to disassemble the mask into

The illustrated mask assembly 7500 includes a first or yoke-frame connection arrangement that allows for selective connection of the yoke 202 to the mask frame 2030 . In particular, the illustrated mask frame 2030 includes a ridge or lip 7909 that surrounds at least a portion of the perimeter of the frame 2030 and to which the yoke 202 can be removably attached or clipped. provide a feature or structure that can In the illustrated configuration, lips 7909 are provided on at least each side of frame 2030 . However, in other configurations the lip 7909 can define a fully closed loop perimeter. Alternatively, lip 7909 can be provided at multiple discrete locations. That is, lips 7909 may be provided only at locations corresponding to engagement features of yoke 202, described below. In the configuration shown, lip 7909 is formed by an extension of the front wall of mask frame 2030 such that the front surface of lip 7909 is flush with an adjacent portion of the front wall of mask frame 2030 . The lip 7909 can be integrally formed with the mask frame 2030 (eg, formed as a protrusion from the mask frame 2030) or attached to the mask frame 2030 (eg, machined into an overmolded structure). separate structures (either physically coupled or formed by such structures). Advantageously, the geometry of the mask frame 2030 and/or the lip 7909 is such that it inhibits or prevents rotation or pivoting of the yoke 202 and provides a single stable orientation of the yoke 202 relative to the mask frame 2030. Can be asymmetric.

76-78, as with the previous embodiments, the illustrated yoke 202 comprises a first or front component or portion 2042 and a second or rear component or portion 2046. As shown in FIG. Front part 2042 and rear part 2046 can be permanently or removably coupled to each other. Front component 2042 and rear component 2046 cooperate to provide a retaining or locking configuration, such as directional locks (1800 (FIGS. 25A-25D), 2048 (FIGS. 26-34) and 2058 (FIGS. 51A, 51B)). defining one or more interior spaces configured to receive components of the Yoke 202 includes a central portion 2202 and a plurality of arms (eg, four arms 2204) arcing rearwardly from the central portion. Arms 2204 are configured to connect to headgear straps. In some configurations, each arm 2204 can be connected to a single headgear strap such that the number of straps equals the number of arms 2204 . However, in other configurations, multiple straps can be connected to a single arm 2204 such that the number of straps is greater than the number of arms 2204, or such that the number of straps is less than the number of arms 2204. , a single strap can be connected to multiple arms 2204 (e.g., the strap extends from the rear portion of the headgear to the first arm, from the first arm to the second arm, and then to the rear portion of the headgear). can return).

The illustrated frame 2030 defines an internal passageway 2031 configured to channel the flow of breathing gas from a gas conduit (not shown) to the cushion module 2020 . The frame 2030 and/or internal passageway extends vertically and overlies a central portion of the cushion module 2020 when the mask assembly is viewed from the front. The upper edge of the frame 2030 terminates a relatively short distance above the inlet opening of the cushion module 2020 and has a downwardly curved or concave upper surface configured to accommodate the air vents 2024 of the cushion module 2020 . can contain. Mask frame 2030 may be configured to be connected to a gas conduit (not shown). In the illustrated configuration, conduit connector portion 7512 is permanently or removably coupled to the lower end of frame 2030 and is configured to be directly or indirectly coupled to a gas conduit. Conduit connector portion 7512 may also secure a valve member of an anti-asphyxiation valve (AAV) within the internal passage of frame 2030 .

78 shows rear part 2046 of yoke 202 facing frame 2030. FIG. The rear side of yoke 202 includes part of the first or yoke-frame connection arrangement. In particular, the rear part 2046 of the yoke 202 includes one or more connection features, generally designated 7612, configured to engage a portion of the frame 2030, such as a lip 7909. The illustrated connection features 7612 are in the form of fingers or arms that are flexible. In the illustrated configuration, the yoke 202 includes four connection features 7612 a, 7612 b, 7612 c, 7612 d spaced around the perimeter of the base or central portion 2202 of the yoke 202 . Connection features 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d can be substantially similar or identical, and thus unless otherwise indicated, each connection 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d has a specific connection feature. Any description of 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d or connecting features 7612 as a whole may apply.

Each of the connection features 7612 a , 7612 b , 7612 c , 7612 d is associated with one of the arms 2204 of yoke 202 . In particular, each of the connection features 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d is located at or adjacent to the base of the associated arm 2204 at or near the juncture of the arm 2204 and the central portion 2202. Such a configuration hides the connection features 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d when the yoke 202 is assembled to the frame 2030, providing a clean and attractive appearance. In other configurations, other members of the connecting feature 7612 can be provided. For example, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 or more connection features 7612 may be provided. The connection features 7612 can be arranged in a radial configuration about the periphery of the central portion 2202 . Connection features 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d may be integral with rear component 2046 made of an elastically deformable material such as, for example, polypropylene, high density polyethylene or polycarbonate.

Fingers or connecting features 7612 a , 7612 b , 7612 c , 7612 d are hook-like tabs that extend rearwardly from the rear surface of rear component 2046 of yoke 202 . Fingers or tabs 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d engage a first end connected to (e.g., integrally formed with) rear component 2046 of yoke 202 and lip 7909 of frame 2030. and a second end defining an inwardly extending cuff, clasp or projection 7614 configured to. In particular, each projection 7614 defines a first interlocking surface configured to contact the posterior surface of lip 7909, which functions as a second interlocking surface, and each projection 7614 and lip 7909 form a snap fit or Define interlock connections. The rearward facing surface of protrusion 7614, or the leading surface with respect to the assembly direction, may be chamfered, angled, or beveled so that fingers or connection features 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d are aligned with frame 2030. contacts the lip 7909 and moves toward the lip 7909. As the projection 7614 moves past the lip 7909, the fingers or connecting features 7612a, 7612b, 7612c, 7612d can elastically move radially until the projection 7614 engages the lip 7909. can. In an alternative configuration, the illustrated configuration can be reversed such that the fingers or connection features 7612 a , 7612 b , 7612 c , 7612 d are located on the frame 2030 and the lip 7909 is located on the yoke 202 . Additionally, other types of structures that provide cooperating interlocking surfaces can be used.

FIG. 83 shows the general direction of forces applied to yoke 202 and frame 2030 during the connection or assembly process. For example, a first force may be applied to yoke 202 substantially in the direction of arrow 7916 . A first force may be applied by a user's hand pushing or pulling the yoke toward frame 2030 . A second or reaction force is applied, as indicated by arrow 7912, substantially in the opposite direction of the first force. The connecting feature 7612 and the lip 7909 are pressed against each other and one or both are slightly deformed or flexed (e.g., elastically deformed), thereby allowing the connecting feature 7612 to pass through the lip 7909. . The path of flexural movement of connecting feature 7612 is substantially radially outward as indicated by arrow 7920 . Deformation or deflection can be limited by stop surfaces 7913 defined by corresponding arms 2204 of yoke 202 in the illustrated configuration. Advantageously, such a configuration limits the deflection of the connection feature 7612 to within the range of elastic deformation, reducing the risk of breakage and reducing the risk of breakage compared to configurations that do not limit the deflection of the connection feature 7612. Useful life can be extended. The stop surface 7913 can be separated from the connection feature 7612 by a gap 7905 that can extend partially or completely through the rear wall of the rear component 2046 of the yoke 202. Gap 7905 can facilitate flexing of connecting feature 7612 and/or decouple movement of connecting feature 7612 with associated arm 2204 such that movement of arm 2204 does not move connecting feature 7612, Or at least not enough movement to cause unintended separation of connection feature 7612 from lip 7909 . After connecting feature 7612 passes lip 7909, the elastic nature of connecting feature 7612 allows connecting feature 7612 to elastically recover toward or to its relaxed position, and protrusion 7614 is Engages lip 7909 to secure yoke 202 to frame 2030 .

78 and 83, the rear part 2046 of the yoke 202 can include recesses 7616 associated with each of the fingers or connection features 7612. As shown in FIG. Each recess 7616 is located adjacent a first end of an associated finger or connecting feature 7612 to facilitate flexing of the finger or connecting feature 7612 . Preferably, the recess 7616 is adjacent to the finger or connecting feature 7612 . However, in other configurations, recesses 7616 are located sufficiently close to fingers or connection features 7612 such that the required deflection force is lower than designs that do not include recesses 7616 . In alternative configurations, a single recess may be associated with or located adjacent to more than one or all of the fingers or connecting features 7612 . For example, a single recess can extend along one side of central portion 2202 and adjacent each of the fingers or connecting features 7612 on that side. Alternatively, a single recess can surround the central portion 2202 and be located adjacent all of the fingers or connecting features 7612 .

The illustrated mask assembly 7500 includes a second or cushion module-frame connection configuration that allows for selective connection of the cushion module 2020 to the mask frame 2030 . Mask frame 2030 includes a rearwardly extending cylindrical collar 7520 configured to engage a corresponding opening 7522 defined by cylindrical wall 7524 of housing 7504 of cushion module 2020 . A cylindrical wall 7524 can extend inwardly from the outer wall of the housing 7504 towards or into the breathing chamber of the cushion module 2020 . In the illustrated configuration, collar 7520 and opening 7522 define a circular or substantially circular perimeter. However, in other configurations, collar 7520 and/or opening 7522 can have a non-circular shape, such as, for example, oval or polygonal. Thus, the term "cylindrical" as used herein, unless otherwise indicated, can include an extruded closed loop of any perimeter shape.

The illustrated mask frame 2030 includes one or more recesses 7620 configured to receive corresponding protrusions 7622 of the cushion module 2020 . However, this configuration can also be reversed such that the mask frame 2030 includes one or more protrusions and the cushion module 2020 includes corresponding recesses. The illustrated mask frame 2030 includes a pair of partial annular recesses 7620 that extend circumferentially and are located on opposite sides of the collar 7520 . Cushion module 2020 includes a corresponding pair of protrusions 7622 that engage recesses 7620 in a snap fit or interlocking manner. In other configurations, the mask frame 2030 and cushion module 2020 can include fewer (eg, single) or more recesses 7620 and protrusions 7622 . The interlocking connection of recess 7620 and protrusion 7622 provides a retention force that tends to restrain or prevent unintended separation of cushion module 2020 from mask frame 2030 . Additionally, the recesses 7620 and protrusions 7622 can provide feedback (eg, tactile or audible feedback) to the user that the connection between the cushion module 2020 and the mask frame 2030 is complete, and/or Relative rotation between the cushion module 2020 and the mask frame 2030 can be restrained or prevented.

In some configurations, mask assembly 7500 includes alignment features that facilitate proper rotational alignment of cushion module 2020 and mask frame 2030 . In some configurations, the alignment features can also restrain or prevent relative rotation between the cushion module 2020 and the mask frame 2030. Referring to FIG. 84, the illustrated collar 7520 of the mask frame 2030 includes recesses 7526 configured to receive corresponding projections 7528 of the cushion module 2020 . However, this configuration can be reversed such that the protrusions are located in the mask frame 2030 and the recesses are located in the cushion module 2020. FIG.

In the illustrated configuration, sides of protrusion 7528 contact corresponding sides of recess 7526 to limit rotation of cushion module 2020 relative to mask frame 2030 . The outer shape defined by at least the sides of projection 7528 substantially corresponds to the size and shape defined by at least the sides of recess 7526 such that any significant relative rotational movement is prevented. However, in other configurations, a gap may be provided between protrusion 7528 and recess 7526 to allow some amount of rotation. In the illustrated configuration, the recess 7526 and the projection 7528 each have a generally trapezoidal shape in the circumferential direction, or a rear portion such that the recess 7526 acts as a lead-in for the projection 7528 for easy assembly. It has a shape that tapers in width in the direction from the to the front.

In some configurations, the forward facing surface of projection 7528 contacts the rearward facing surface of recess 7526 when cushion module 2020 is properly assembled to mask frame 2030 . With such a configuration, contact between the forward facing surface of protrusion 7528 and the rearward facing surface of recess 7526 provides an indication or feedback (eg, tactile or audible feedback) to the user that the connection is complete. be able to. Additionally or alternatively, other portions of the cushion module 2020 and mask frame 2030, such as, for example, the forward-facing peripheral surface of the cylindrical wall 7524, can contact upon completion of assembly.

The features of each mask assembly or portion thereof disclosed herein can be utilized with other mask assemblies or portions thereof disclosed herein. For example, directional locks, including manually or intentionally releasable locks, to allow adjustment of the length of the headgear portion or the overall closed-loop (“circumferential”) dimension of the mask assembly. , any strap (e.g., upper or lower straps, single-sided straps or double-sided straps), or other portions of the headgear configuration or overall mask assembly. any of the disclosed release or release mechanisms in any disclosed or other suitable location within the headgear or mask assembly, any of the directional locks or other controllable locking types; can be employed with Further, in some configurations, each directional lock (or other locking or adjustment mechanism) can include 2-6 locking elements, or lock washers, and/or a A locking force can be applied. In other configurations, each directional lock (or other lock or adjustment mechanism) may include 3-5 locking elements or lock washers and/or exert a locking force of approximately 4-6 Newtons. be able to.

Unless otherwise clearly required from the context, throughout the specification and claims, words such as "comprise, comprising," and the like are used in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense. , that is, to be interpreted in the sense of "including but not limited to." In particular, conditional language used herein such as "can, could," "might, may," "for example," etc. Generally, some embodiments will include some features, elements and/or states, while other embodiments will generally include other is intended to imply that it does not include Thus, such conditional language generally states that the features, elements and/or states are required in some way in one or more embodiments, or that one or more embodiments require author input or With or without indication, the logic for determining whether these features, elements and/or states should be included in or implemented in any particular embodiment may be applied. It is not intended to imply necessarily inclusion.

The term "plurality" refers to two or more elements. Recitations of amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics may be preceded by the term "about" or "approximately" such quantities, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes or other characteristics. should be interpreted as if The terms "about" or "approximately" refer to amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes, and other characteristics that are not required to be exact, but are subject to acceptable tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, if necessary. It is meant to be an approximation and/or may be larger or smaller to reflect measurement error, etc., and other factors known to those skilled in the art. Recitations of amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes and other characteristics may also be preceded by the term "substantially" such amounts, dimensions, sizes, formulations, parameters, shapes or other characteristics. should also be interpreted as The term "substantially" does not require that the recited characteristic, parameter or value be exactly achieved, and includes, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement accuracy limits, and other factors known to those skilled in the art. Means that deviations or variations may occur in amounts that do not eliminate the effect that the feature is intended to provide.

Numerical data may be expressed or presented herein in a range format. These range formats are used merely for convenience and brevity and are therefore flexibly construed to include the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, as well as the values encompassed within that range. It will be understood that each numerical value or subrange recited should also be construed as if each numerical value and subrange were explicitly recited. By way of illustration, a numerical range "1 to 5" should not be construed to include only the explicitly recited values from about 1 to about 5, but rather to include each individual value within the indicated range. and should also be construed to include subranges. Thus, included in this numerical range are individual values such as 2, 3 and 4, as well as subranges such as "1 to 3," "2 to 4," and "3 to 5." This same principle applies to ranges reciting only one numerical value (eg, "greater than 1") and should apply regardless of the breadth of the range or the characteristic being described.

For convenience, multiple items may be presented in a common list. However, these lists should be construed as if each element of the list were individually identified as a separate and unique element. Accordingly, unless otherwise indicated, any individual element of such a list shall be construed to be a de facto equivalent of every other element of the same list solely on the basis that it is presented in a common group. should not be interpreted. Further, the terms "and" and "or" when used with lists of items refer to any one or more of the listed items alone or in combination with other listed items. should be interpreted broadly in that it can The term "alternatively" refers to the choice of one of two or more options, only the options listed at a time, or one of the options listed, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is not intended to limit the selection to only one.

Reference herein to any prior art is not an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor in any country in the world; should not be construed as something like

Where the above description refers to integrals or components that have known equivalents, those integrals are incorporated herein as if individually indicated.

The invention broadly extends to the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the present application, individually or collectively, any or all of two or more of said parts, elements or features. It is also possible to say that it exists in a combination of

It should be noted that various variations and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described herein will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such variations and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and without diminishing its attendant advantages. For example, various components can be repositioned as desired. It is therefore intended that such variations and modifications be included within the scope of the present invention. Moreover, not all features, aspects and advantages may be required to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.

Claims (14)

Headgear for holding a respiratory mask to a user's face , comprising:
at least one strap comprising a filament;
A directional lock having a locking element movable between a locked position and an open position, comprising:
when the locking element is in the locked position, the locking element applies a first frictional force to the filament to limit movement of the filament in the direction of elongation of the strap;
by the locking element exerting a second frictional force on the filament that is less than the first frictional force when the locking element is in the open position; or by the locking element exerting a frictional force on the filament. the absence of the locking element facilitates movement of the filament in the direction of elongation of the strap compared to when the locking element is in the locked position;
the directional lock configured to :
a release member movable between a non-actuated position and an actuated position,
when the release member is in the non-actuated position, the release member does not impede movement of the locking element;
when the release member is in the actuated position, the release member holds the locking element in the open position by preventing movement of the locking element ;
the release member configured to :
Headgear with the release member has a body portion and an actuator extending from the body portion;
2. The headgear of claim 1, wherein the release member is configured to retain the locking element in the open position due to engagement of the locking element by the actuator. the release member is coupled to a release element , and the actuator of the release member is configured to selectively engage the locking element upon manipulation of the release element by a user; 3. Headgear according to claim 2 . the release element is a handle;
4. The headgear of claim 3 , wherein the release member is configured such that a user pulling the handle away from the user's face causes engagement between the actuator and the locking element. . further comprising an arm coupled to the at least one strap and configured to be movable relative to the respiratory mask ;
5. The headgear according to claim 4 , wherein the release member is configured to be movable between the non-operating position and the operating position by movement of the arm. 6. The headgear of any one of claims 1-5 , further comprising a biasing element configured to bias the release member toward the unactuated position. The at least one strap comprises a first strap portion and a second strap portion, the filament is attached to one of the first strap portion and the second strap portion, and the first strap portion and the Headgear according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second strap portions are movable relative to each other to change the length of said at least one strap. A headgear according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one strap extends between a head engaging portion and a mask engaging portion of the headgear. A mask assembly comprising the headgear according to any one of claims 1 to 8 ,
a frame;
a cushion module comprising a housing and a seal;
comprising a mask comprising
the mask comprising a connection arrangement configured to connect the cushion module to the frame, the connection arrangement comprising at least one protrusion located on one of the cushion module and the frame; and the cushion module. and at least one recess located in the other of the frames, wherein the at least one projection is configured to engage the at least one recess to secure the cushion module to the frame. There is a mask assembly. 10. The mask assembly of Claim 9 , wherein the cushion module comprises a cylindrical wall defining an opening for receiving a collar of the frame. 11. A mask assembly according to claim 9 or 10 , wherein the headgear comprises a yoke configured to connect the headgear to the mask. 4. The yoke of claim 1, wherein the yoke comprises a central portion and at least one arm extending from the central portion, the at least one arm configured to connect to at least one strap of the headgear. 12. The mask assembly according to 11 . 13. The frame of claim 12 , wherein the frame comprises a lip and the yoke comprises at least one hooked connecting finger configured to selectively engage the lip to secure the yoke to the frame. mask assembly. 14. The mask assembly of Claim 13 , wherein the lip extends along the perimeter of the frame.

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